New Laws Targeting Knife Crime

The Victorian Government has introduced new laws to target knife crime.

New laws in force from 22 August 2010 mean police can search a person for knives in a public place anywhere, anytime, with and without notice.

From 22 August if you get caught carrying a controlled weapon such as a knife and you are 16 and over, you face an on-the-spot fine of $1000, or you may have to go to court and face

a fine of over $14,000, or one year imprisonment. These penalties are doubled if you are inside

or within 20 metres of a pub, club or bar.

From 1 January 2011, you will no longer be able to buy any type of knife, including kitchen

knives or knives for school or work, if you are under 18. To do so is against the law and you will face a $239 onthe- spot fine, or you could face court and a fine of over $1400. Anyone who knowingly sells a knife or other controlled weapon to a minor faces a fine of over $2300.

It is an offence to possess, carry or use a knife or other controlled weapon unless you have a lawful excuse. A lawful excuse can include carrying a knife for the purposes of your job or when participating in lawful sport, recreation or entertainment activities, for example when fishing.

Carrying a knife for the purposes of self-defence is not a lawful excuse.

Police will consider all the circumstances when deciding if someone has a lawful excuse for

carrying a knife or other controlled weapon.

The new laws will commence in stages. For more information see the ‘News and Information’ section of LSD’s website at: www.police.vic.gov.au/weapons